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Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life
Tess Simpson needs a break!
No one appreciates her at home. No one appreciates her at work. And now her dog has died. She’s had enough!
Maybe what she really needs is a break from hopeless husband, Dave, the ungrateful ‘kidults’ and the lacklustre job.
River Romero needs a break!
She’s had success in the past, but screenwriting is a tough career in a tough town and her next script has got to fly or River’s dream career is over.
The swap!
Everything about River’s L.A. life sounds exciting to Tess, from the condo with a pool, to the Hollywood glitz.
Everything about Tess’s English country life sounds so calming to River, from the wisteria over the front door to the peaceful bedroom.
Both women want their lives to change, but real life isn’t like the movies.
And what if getting away from it all isn’t all it’s cracked up to be?
A laugh out loud emotional read, perfect for fans of Fiona Gibson, Tracy Bloom and Sophie Ranald!
No one appreciates her at home. No one appreciates her at work. And now her dog has died. She’s had enough!
Maybe what she really needs is a break from hopeless husband, Dave, the ungrateful ‘kidults’ and the lacklustre job.
River Romero needs a break!
She’s had success in the past, but screenwriting is a tough career in a tough town and her next script has got to fly or River’s dream career is over.
The swap!
Everything about River’s L.A. life sounds exciting to Tess, from the condo with a pool, to the Hollywood glitz.
Everything about Tess’s English country life sounds so calming to River, from the wisteria over the front door to the peaceful bedroom.
Both women want their lives to change, but real life isn’t like the movies.
And what if getting away from it all isn’t all it’s cracked up to be?
A laugh out loud emotional read, perfect for fans of Fiona Gibson, Tracy Bloom and Sophie Ranald!
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2021
1193 people are currently reading
540 people want to read
About the author
Carmen Reid
65 books232 followersCarmen was born and brought up in a chilly and windy corner of Scotland in the depths of the countryside.
This may explain her lifelong phobia of cows and abiding interest in cities, department stores, books, the cinema and newspapers.
She is currently working on her eigth novel for grown-ups and her third novel for teenagers. Well, she likes to keep busy.
Carmen did once study English Literature at University College London, but, ignoring everything she’d learned, she spent most of her 20s working as a local, regional and then national newspaper reporter.
Knowing deep down that she was supposed to be an author not a journo, she left her day job to have a baby and write her first novel. (Hey, and just four sleepless, penniless years later it was published!)
Although there is a corner of her heart that will always belong to London (property developers welcome) she now lives in Glasgow, Scotland, with her husband, Thomas, and two children, Sam and Claudie, plus Jimmy the (lunatic) Jack Russell and Clive, Orangey and Gorcha, the fish.
Fortunately her hobbies are cooking, cleaning, arguing about whose turn it is to walk the dog, clean the fish tank, take out the rubbish, do the laundry... and so on.
This may explain her lifelong phobia of cows and abiding interest in cities, department stores, books, the cinema and newspapers.
She is currently working on her eigth novel for grown-ups and her third novel for teenagers. Well, she likes to keep busy.
Carmen did once study English Literature at University College London, but, ignoring everything she’d learned, she spent most of her 20s working as a local, regional and then national newspaper reporter.
Knowing deep down that she was supposed to be an author not a journo, she left her day job to have a baby and write her first novel. (Hey, and just four sleepless, penniless years later it was published!)
Although there is a corner of her heart that will always belong to London (property developers welcome) she now lives in Glasgow, Scotland, with her husband, Thomas, and two children, Sam and Claudie, plus Jimmy the (lunatic) Jack Russell and Clive, Orangey and Gorcha, the fish.
Fortunately her hobbies are cooking, cleaning, arguing about whose turn it is to walk the dog, clean the fish tank, take out the rubbish, do the laundry... and so on.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
August 23, 2024
one and a half stars.
No matter how hard she tries to keep on top of things, Tess Simpson feels she is definitely not appreciated at home or work. Maybe a holiday is what the family needs to recharge? But life has a habit of changing plans.
River Romero is the other main character. I found River to be a caricature rather than coming across as real. Supposedly she is trying to come up with her next script that will stop her career from stalling completely. Can’t believe her or the situation with her apartment and the stat she leaves it in.
For me, this book turned into a skimfest. In other words the longer it went on the more I skimmed.
I could not relate to any of the characters. Which is not necessarily a deal breaker but the thing is I didn’t care enough. The scene with the dog poo at River’s place no doubt was meant to make me laugh. It didn’t. It felt forced and over the top. And I could have done without hearing how everything was cleaned. Move on.
I struggled to keep going with this book. Maybe I am just the wrong age group and demographic for this book as some others have enjoyed it. But I was pleased to be done with it. Sad to say, it wasn’t just the wife was worn out.
No matter how hard she tries to keep on top of things, Tess Simpson feels she is definitely not appreciated at home or work. Maybe a holiday is what the family needs to recharge? But life has a habit of changing plans.
River Romero is the other main character. I found River to be a caricature rather than coming across as real. Supposedly she is trying to come up with her next script that will stop her career from stalling completely. Can’t believe her or the situation with her apartment and the stat she leaves it in.
For me, this book turned into a skimfest. In other words the longer it went on the more I skimmed.
I could not relate to any of the characters. Which is not necessarily a deal breaker but the thing is I didn’t care enough. The scene with the dog poo at River’s place no doubt was meant to make me laugh. It didn’t. It felt forced and over the top. And I could have done without hearing how everything was cleaned. Move on.
I struggled to keep going with this book. Maybe I am just the wrong age group and demographic for this book as some others have enjoyed it. But I was pleased to be done with it. Sad to say, it wasn’t just the wife was worn out.
August 2, 2021
At first I thought this would be a run-of-the-mill ‘life swap’ type of story. But I was proven wrong. Reid’s narrative offers something much more heartfelt and meaningful. It’s actually quite an emotional read and I really enjoyed watching the transition that the characters undergo.
Both women, River and Tess, are deserving of a break. For Tess, the family holiday that she put so much effort into planning has now gone askew. And I felt so sorry for her! It sounded like an absolute dream of a holiday and I could imagine how excited Tess would be about reuniting her family for such an unforgettable experience. When she realises that yes, she can travel on her own, Tess winds up in LA, house-swapping with script-writer River. River is also down on her luck and struggling for her ‘big break’ in Hollywood. Lumped with a tricky script of High School meets The Merchant of Venice, River is hoping her Stratford-upon-Avon location will provide some much-needed inspiration. As you can imagine, it’s all set for some pretty meaningful changes for both characters.
Before Tess even leaves, Reid writes some incredibly moving scenes. Featuring the house dog, Ruby, the sadness that radiated from the pages really reminded me of my own similar experiences. When Tess arrives at River’s apartment, I could see the UK-Tess simply relocating and the errands she runs did not scream ‘new experiences’ and making the most of being on her own. I really felt sorry for her and was equally concerned that this narrative would not show characters learning from their experiences.
However, before you go thinking that this is a pretty basic narrative, let me reassure you that it is the opposite. Gradually, Tess steps out of her comfort zone and, through meeting new people, starts to experience life in the way that she has yearned for, for so long. On the other side of the pond, River explores Shakespeare’s birth place for inspiration, with Reid’s description wetting my appetite for wanting to visit this historical location myself! River’s adventures at Tess’s home are equally enjoyable and I thought her character really grew from being quite selfish to open-minded and caring. I think the scene in the coffee shop was what truly changed my outlook of her.
The narrative occasionally switches to Tess’s son, Alex, and this is where the saddest part of the story lies. Alex’s story slowly develops over the book and I think this broke up the whole ‘house swap’ theme. It is a darker part to the tale but I thought that Reid explores it with absolute sensitivity, acknowledging the emotional troubles that we all come to face in our lifetime. It is this part that made the book stand out from others of a similar genre.
I liked the change that the characters undergo. At first I was doubtful that Tess’s husband, Dave, would ‘grow up’ and stop feeling sorry for himself. However, I was pleased to be proven wrong! Even he gradually realises what he needs to alter about his behaviour, leading to a very merry ending at the finish.
This was a really good book to read and I loved sitting in the sunshine and escaping to Stratford-upon-Avon and then LA. It is not just a book about two women, but also their families and how they interact with the most important people around them. A good read, I’m excited to see what this author produces next.
With thanks to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Both women, River and Tess, are deserving of a break. For Tess, the family holiday that she put so much effort into planning has now gone askew. And I felt so sorry for her! It sounded like an absolute dream of a holiday and I could imagine how excited Tess would be about reuniting her family for such an unforgettable experience. When she realises that yes, she can travel on her own, Tess winds up in LA, house-swapping with script-writer River. River is also down on her luck and struggling for her ‘big break’ in Hollywood. Lumped with a tricky script of High School meets The Merchant of Venice, River is hoping her Stratford-upon-Avon location will provide some much-needed inspiration. As you can imagine, it’s all set for some pretty meaningful changes for both characters.
Before Tess even leaves, Reid writes some incredibly moving scenes. Featuring the house dog, Ruby, the sadness that radiated from the pages really reminded me of my own similar experiences. When Tess arrives at River’s apartment, I could see the UK-Tess simply relocating and the errands she runs did not scream ‘new experiences’ and making the most of being on her own. I really felt sorry for her and was equally concerned that this narrative would not show characters learning from their experiences.
However, before you go thinking that this is a pretty basic narrative, let me reassure you that it is the opposite. Gradually, Tess steps out of her comfort zone and, through meeting new people, starts to experience life in the way that she has yearned for, for so long. On the other side of the pond, River explores Shakespeare’s birth place for inspiration, with Reid’s description wetting my appetite for wanting to visit this historical location myself! River’s adventures at Tess’s home are equally enjoyable and I thought her character really grew from being quite selfish to open-minded and caring. I think the scene in the coffee shop was what truly changed my outlook of her.
The narrative occasionally switches to Tess’s son, Alex, and this is where the saddest part of the story lies. Alex’s story slowly develops over the book and I think this broke up the whole ‘house swap’ theme. It is a darker part to the tale but I thought that Reid explores it with absolute sensitivity, acknowledging the emotional troubles that we all come to face in our lifetime. It is this part that made the book stand out from others of a similar genre.
I liked the change that the characters undergo. At first I was doubtful that Tess’s husband, Dave, would ‘grow up’ and stop feeling sorry for himself. However, I was pleased to be proven wrong! Even he gradually realises what he needs to alter about his behaviour, leading to a very merry ending at the finish.
This was a really good book to read and I loved sitting in the sunshine and escaping to Stratford-upon-Avon and then LA. It is not just a book about two women, but also their families and how they interact with the most important people around them. A good read, I’m excited to see what this author produces next.
With thanks to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2022
It gets two stars because it started off so well. And then it went really downhill. I liked Tess a lot and thought River was a user honestly. I didn't like her, not even when we get to the end of the book. I think what got me is that the swap was really unfair. River got a whole very nice house, fully stocked, with Tess's husband listening to her going on and on about herself. Tess had to clean up River's place for like 2 days, ended up having to deal with her dogs, etc. Sadly the book drags, and it's only 270 something pages so that's not great. I also thought it was odd the author decided to do some chapters with Tess's son's point of view. It didn't work and it stuck out very badly.
June 16, 2021
4.5 Stars
Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life by CArmen Reid was fun, and surprisingly very deep. It was quite a bit different than what I expected. From the cover and blurb, I expected a lot more comedy. But, while very funny in spots, this book is much more serious, and heartwarming than I thought it would be. It’s quite an emotional journey that the main characters go on, and it’s a very satisfying book to read.
Tess Simpson is fed up with her life. After being passed over again for a partnership in her accounting firm, she plans an exotic vacation to Thailand, she gets an entire summer off from work, and finds someone to lease her home while they are gone, her plans are taking off! The only hitch is her family doesn’t want to go with her. Her son is busy working in London in his first job out of University, and her daughter has a new boyfriend she can’t stand to leave. Her husband Dave is reluctant to go, but when he has an accident and sprains his ankle and ribs, he can’t possibly leave home.
River Romero rented a house near the famous Stratford-Upon-Avon to research a new movie script she’s writing, but when the family she’s renting from changes plans, she convinces Tess to swap homes with her in Los Angeles. Tess decides to leave her husband Dave to live in the summerhouse at the end of the Garden and allow River to rent the home, while she travels to Los Angeles for the adventure she’s been craving.
This book was fun, satisfying, emotional, and thought-provoking all at the same time. It was a bit difficult to get into. I couldn’t sympathize with Tess at all at the beginning of this book. However, she grew on me very fast once she traveled to Los Angeles. Once the swap was done, I was pulled into the stories and enjoyed it very much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life by CArmen Reid was fun, and surprisingly very deep. It was quite a bit different than what I expected. From the cover and blurb, I expected a lot more comedy. But, while very funny in spots, this book is much more serious, and heartwarming than I thought it would be. It’s quite an emotional journey that the main characters go on, and it’s a very satisfying book to read.
Tess Simpson is fed up with her life. After being passed over again for a partnership in her accounting firm, she plans an exotic vacation to Thailand, she gets an entire summer off from work, and finds someone to lease her home while they are gone, her plans are taking off! The only hitch is her family doesn’t want to go with her. Her son is busy working in London in his first job out of University, and her daughter has a new boyfriend she can’t stand to leave. Her husband Dave is reluctant to go, but when he has an accident and sprains his ankle and ribs, he can’t possibly leave home.
River Romero rented a house near the famous Stratford-Upon-Avon to research a new movie script she’s writing, but when the family she’s renting from changes plans, she convinces Tess to swap homes with her in Los Angeles. Tess decides to leave her husband Dave to live in the summerhouse at the end of the Garden and allow River to rent the home, while she travels to Los Angeles for the adventure she’s been craving.
This book was fun, satisfying, emotional, and thought-provoking all at the same time. It was a bit difficult to get into. I couldn’t sympathize with Tess at all at the beginning of this book. However, she grew on me very fast once she traveled to Los Angeles. Once the swap was done, I was pulled into the stories and enjoyed it very much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 15, 2022
I didn’t connect with any of the characters, in fact I found them to be obnoxious. I was bored throughout the story. Disappointed.
June 17, 2022
your typical chick-lit book. is exactly what you’d expect so i cannot complain. will it be winning any awards? no. but is it entertaining and somewhat heartwarming? yes. does everything work out in the end? yes. did that put a smile on my face? yes, and it was exactly what i needed so i could not ask for more really.
July 12, 2021
First let me say how overjoyed I am to see a brand new Carmen Reid book, I've been a massive fan of the author in the past, and it is such a pleasure to be able to read a new story from her. And I'm delighted to say it doesn't disappoint.
This is a wonderful book, it's uplifting, emotional in places, funny in others and I really wasn't sure how how it was going to end, although it does have the most perfect ending!
I loved the chapters from both River and Tess's points of view, it was great getting to know these two rather different women as they swap homes for a few months. River so she can spend time in Shakespeare country to help with her new script project - and Tess going to LA as she's taking a 3 month work sabbatical after being overlooked for a promotion and just needs to shake things up in her life.
From their tentative first steps in their new locations it was wonderful to see how both of these women started to thrive.
What added a more sombre tone to the the book were the chapter's from Alex's point of view, Tess's grown up, young adult son, who I couldn't help but feel for and also be rather scared for. It's an important storyline, sensitively written that raises awareness of male mental health in the young.
I thoroughly enjoyed every last second of this book and was desperately trying to find moments to pick it back up and read some more. I just really hope the wait for this author's next book is considerably shorter than the amount of years I've been waiting for this one!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
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July 17, 2021I really enjoyed this book, it was so different from others I've read recently. It grabbed me straight away and I found myself wanting to keep on reading it . My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
July 4, 2021
I was drawn to this book by the title. I think many women of a certain age, after having so much responsibility of family, work, life in general, on their shoulders, they all feel at some point they would want a new life. I also love the book cover!
I have not read any books by this author, Carmen Reid, previously. I think she is an excellent author and did a fantastic job on the plot and created true to life characters.
I was immediately absorbed into the story. My heart went out to Tess and I hoped in time that my heart would soften for River (because she is a bit of a mess) and it did. I loved River by the end of the book. These are the two main characters that are the catalyst for most of the actions that take place. While the plot is driven by them, I cannot downplay the other beautifully created characters. From a confident dancer to an insecure young man, they all are trying to accept themselves, flaws and skills.
This story is so much more than I thought it would be. It is about deep self-reflection. It delves into some series situations and handles them with grace.
I want to add that the book does at times have some profanity. I do not mind that in a book, if it is used for the character’s personality during frustration or joy, which is the case in this book. When an author uses it too much, for shock value (I believe) that turns me off. I think when it was used in this book, it was totally appropriate.
I want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is done freely as a hobby of mine, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.
I have not read any books by this author, Carmen Reid, previously. I think she is an excellent author and did a fantastic job on the plot and created true to life characters.
I was immediately absorbed into the story. My heart went out to Tess and I hoped in time that my heart would soften for River (because she is a bit of a mess) and it did. I loved River by the end of the book. These are the two main characters that are the catalyst for most of the actions that take place. While the plot is driven by them, I cannot downplay the other beautifully created characters. From a confident dancer to an insecure young man, they all are trying to accept themselves, flaws and skills.
This story is so much more than I thought it would be. It is about deep self-reflection. It delves into some series situations and handles them with grace.
I want to add that the book does at times have some profanity. I do not mind that in a book, if it is used for the character’s personality during frustration or joy, which is the case in this book. When an author uses it too much, for shock value (I believe) that turns me off. I think when it was used in this book, it was totally appropriate.
I want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is done freely as a hobby of mine, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.
August 2, 2021
Life – as we know it!
Tess Simpson feels as if the world is closing in on her; unappreciated at home and work and missing the closeness she had with her children now that they’ve moved out. She needs a break! Across ‘the pond’ screenwriter River Romero’s life has went downhill lately and she needs to rescue it. A house swap may just be the thing to get both these women���s lives back on track – or is it?
I think the author has probably hit the nail on the head about how a lot of women feel; generally referred to as their ‘mid-life crisis’ – which frankly irritates the heck out of most of us! So immediately I empathised with Tess and also, to a certain extent, with River. There are plenty of viable points made along the way and lots of laughs but my overriding memory will be of sobbing my heart out at the beginning of the book. Keep the tissues handy! I was never quite sure how this one was going to end but that just added to the enjoyment of reading. Good characters, an excellent storyline and accomplished writing all add up to an entertaining read. An author to watch out for. 4*.
Tess Simpson feels as if the world is closing in on her; unappreciated at home and work and missing the closeness she had with her children now that they’ve moved out. She needs a break! Across ‘the pond’ screenwriter River Romero’s life has went downhill lately and she needs to rescue it. A house swap may just be the thing to get both these women���s lives back on track – or is it?
I think the author has probably hit the nail on the head about how a lot of women feel; generally referred to as their ‘mid-life crisis’ – which frankly irritates the heck out of most of us! So immediately I empathised with Tess and also, to a certain extent, with River. There are plenty of viable points made along the way and lots of laughs but my overriding memory will be of sobbing my heart out at the beginning of the book. Keep the tissues handy! I was never quite sure how this one was going to end but that just added to the enjoyment of reading. Good characters, an excellent storyline and accomplished writing all add up to an entertaining read. An author to watch out for. 4*.
August 2, 2021
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
Carmen Reid’s books were some of my first chick-lit/rom-com reads almost 20 years ago (20 years!!). I had lost track of her in recent years so I was so glad when given the chance to participate in the blog tour for her new novel Worn out wife seeks new life.
I was expecting a light and funny comedy but found a much deeper story dealing with some serious and emotional issues.
Tess is going through a midlife crisis. She’s fed up and feels stuck at work and with her family life, so she plans a gorgeous holiday in Southeast Asia for her family. River is a screenwriter going through a rough patch who decides to go to England trying to find the spark that allows her to write a great screenplay. When Tess’ plans go awry she finds herself home swapping with River and all by herself in LA.
I felt so much for Tess. Her husband Dave and kids, Natalie and Alex came as a bit ungrateful at first (seriously you’re turning down an all expenses paid vacation?). It took me a bit longer to warm up to River. She came a bit selfish and not at all likeable. The first part felt a bit long but once the house swap was done things got much more interesting. I loved Tess’ journey of self-discovery and the way River thrived while in the UK.
The chapters from Alex’s POV had more of a darker tone than usual in this type of novels, but it was done in a really sensitive way. It dealt with mental health in a respectful manner and it was really heartbreaking watching him go that path.
Worn out wife seeks new life was fun, it was emotional, had LOL moments and teary ones (I don’t remember crying as much as I did with Bella’s chapter) and a great comeback for Ms. Reid. Hopefully we won’t have to wait as long for her next story.
Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and my spot on the blog tour.
Carmen Reid’s books were some of my first chick-lit/rom-com reads almost 20 years ago (20 years!!). I had lost track of her in recent years so I was so glad when given the chance to participate in the blog tour for her new novel Worn out wife seeks new life.
I was expecting a light and funny comedy but found a much deeper story dealing with some serious and emotional issues.
Tess is going through a midlife crisis. She’s fed up and feels stuck at work and with her family life, so she plans a gorgeous holiday in Southeast Asia for her family. River is a screenwriter going through a rough patch who decides to go to England trying to find the spark that allows her to write a great screenplay. When Tess’ plans go awry she finds herself home swapping with River and all by herself in LA.
I felt so much for Tess. Her husband Dave and kids, Natalie and Alex came as a bit ungrateful at first (seriously you’re turning down an all expenses paid vacation?). It took me a bit longer to warm up to River. She came a bit selfish and not at all likeable. The first part felt a bit long but once the house swap was done things got much more interesting. I loved Tess’ journey of self-discovery and the way River thrived while in the UK.
The chapters from Alex’s POV had more of a darker tone than usual in this type of novels, but it was done in a really sensitive way. It dealt with mental health in a respectful manner and it was really heartbreaking watching him go that path.
Worn out wife seeks new life was fun, it was emotional, had LOL moments and teary ones (I don’t remember crying as much as I did with Bella’s chapter) and a great comeback for Ms. Reid. Hopefully we won’t have to wait as long for her next story.
Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and my spot on the blog tour.
May 25, 2024
I regret buying this urgh... hated the characters.. River was a POS and got the best deal out of the two of them...
I finished this, but regret wasting my time.
I finished this, but regret wasting my time.
July 25, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Carmen Reid, and Boldwood Books publishing for giving me a free arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4 stars
This was my first book by this author and it will not be my last. This book follows Tess Simpson, an over burdened middle-aged woman, who feels like no body appreciates all that she does for them, not at her job and certainly not within her family. So wanting to reconnect with her husband and adult children, Tess plans a family trip. But all does not go according to plan, when her husband falls off a ladder and ends up in the hospital due to his injuries. Reluctant to leave her husband in such a state, both her children, husband, and River Romero, a woman who is a writing a new movie script, convinces Tess to go on the vacation without them and she agrees, leaving her husband Dave to live in the summerhouse at the end of the Garden and allow River to rent the home, while she travels to Los Angeles for the adventure she’s been craving.
This book was surprisingly emotional and deep! I loved the themes of family, middle-age, and self-care the author wove in within this story. The characters were well developed! I felt like these characters were people I might actually meet in real life. The beginning of Tess' story was a little hard for me to relate to, but as she arrives in Los Angeles and begins her long awaited vacation, she begins to be someone who is very realistic and likable. I did not really care for Dave at first. He seemed to be oblivious to his wife and her needs as the caregiver within the family. I was glad to see him come to realize how much his wife did for him and underwent some self-care changes himself. The author did a wonderful job creating the atmosphere of vacation for Tess. I loved reading about her trying new things such as dancing and hair styles. River was also a wonderful character to get to know. She really embraces her time in London and begins to rediscover her love for writing. The author brought up some very sensitive issues such as mental health within the young! She handled this topic and other with care and love. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and would recommend this book to those who are fans of contemporary women's lit. I can't wait to read more books by this author in the future.
4 stars
This was my first book by this author and it will not be my last. This book follows Tess Simpson, an over burdened middle-aged woman, who feels like no body appreciates all that she does for them, not at her job and certainly not within her family. So wanting to reconnect with her husband and adult children, Tess plans a family trip. But all does not go according to plan, when her husband falls off a ladder and ends up in the hospital due to his injuries. Reluctant to leave her husband in such a state, both her children, husband, and River Romero, a woman who is a writing a new movie script, convinces Tess to go on the vacation without them and she agrees, leaving her husband Dave to live in the summerhouse at the end of the Garden and allow River to rent the home, while she travels to Los Angeles for the adventure she’s been craving.
This book was surprisingly emotional and deep! I loved the themes of family, middle-age, and self-care the author wove in within this story. The characters were well developed! I felt like these characters were people I might actually meet in real life. The beginning of Tess' story was a little hard for me to relate to, but as she arrives in Los Angeles and begins her long awaited vacation, she begins to be someone who is very realistic and likable. I did not really care for Dave at first. He seemed to be oblivious to his wife and her needs as the caregiver within the family. I was glad to see him come to realize how much his wife did for him and underwent some self-care changes himself. The author did a wonderful job creating the atmosphere of vacation for Tess. I loved reading about her trying new things such as dancing and hair styles. River was also a wonderful character to get to know. She really embraces her time in London and begins to rediscover her love for writing. The author brought up some very sensitive issues such as mental health within the young! She handled this topic and other with care and love. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and would recommend this book to those who are fans of contemporary women's lit. I can't wait to read more books by this author in the future.
July 1, 2021
Most women I think at one time or another thinks they aren't appreciated, taken for granted, and Tess was feeling that way. Her family had disappointed her, so she decided to swap houses with River, who lived in LA, and River would come to her home in England. The two women were basically opposites, but they both figured out what they had to do.
It was interesting reading about how they both maneuvered around in their new countries and homes. What happens when temptation is in front of you, and will the women be able to step out of their comfort zone and experience all the opportunities, they could have or will they realize what they left is where they truly do belong. There is a saying you don't know what you have until it isn't there anymore, so maybe they will see what they did have.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley and I requested the book only by the title. I didn't read what the book was about, but the title made me want to read it. There has been a time or two I felt like a worn out wife, and I really enjoyed seeing how things went with the worn out wife in the story. I even took a few things with me as I finished the book, just in case I feel like a worn out wife again.
It was interesting reading about how they both maneuvered around in their new countries and homes. What happens when temptation is in front of you, and will the women be able to step out of their comfort zone and experience all the opportunities, they could have or will they realize what they left is where they truly do belong. There is a saying you don't know what you have until it isn't there anymore, so maybe they will see what they did have.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley and I requested the book only by the title. I didn't read what the book was about, but the title made me want to read it. There has been a time or two I felt like a worn out wife, and I really enjoyed seeing how things went with the worn out wife in the story. I even took a few things with me as I finished the book, just in case I feel like a worn out wife again.
January 22, 2023
A good story but I'm a bit disappointed with the 'humour' - I expected the story to be funnier especially with a title like that - and despite the given description it was definitely a book and not a Kindle edition. A quick light read best saved for the beach or sun lounger.
August 1, 2021
Wow! I havnt read a carmen book for ages so was eager to read Worn out wife seeks a life! It certainly didn’t disappoint! Funny entertaining read with a more serious totally relatable undertone that I as a middle aged woman could totally relate to!
What do you do as a middle aged wife, mum, and employee who is totally under appreciated both at work and home, stuck in a rut, feeling there has to be more to life than this!
Tess is that woman she needs a break from home and work! A house swap with River a down on her luck scriptwriter ensues! Tess jets off to LA and certainly finds herself! Indulging in new interests and experiences maki g her a happier more fulfilled person! The ties to home are still deep seated and on her return Tess has a new found contentment and appreciation of home!
A great read that I loved!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
What do you do as a middle aged wife, mum, and employee who is totally under appreciated both at work and home, stuck in a rut, feeling there has to be more to life than this!
Tess is that woman she needs a break from home and work! A house swap with River a down on her luck scriptwriter ensues! Tess jets off to LA and certainly finds herself! Indulging in new interests and experiences maki g her a happier more fulfilled person! The ties to home are still deep seated and on her return Tess has a new found contentment and appreciation of home!
A great read that I loved!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
July 30, 2021
Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life
was a lot more emotional than I was expected. There are some moments of humor, but it definitely went into deeper topics that I was not expecting, including depression and suicide. I loved the idea of a woman who is tired of the way her life is going and starts to seek a change. It was nice and I felt for her wish to travel. She put off a lot in her life in favor of helping her family and I liked her beginning to think about putting herself first for a change. On the surface, the novel is almost like her reaching a mid-life crisis, but the novel goes into a very complex weave of emotions as each character is going through something different.
Tess Simpson has been a senior accountant at her firm where she has worked for the past 17 years. When she is passed over for a promotion, she decides that it is time for a change. Rather than quitting, she takes a three-month sabbatical and she is excited to use this as an opportunity for her family to holiday together. She plans a three-week trip to her dream destinations of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. The difficult part is that her husband, Dave, is already reluctant since he hates to fly and loves holidays at home or close destinations, such as France. Months later and the trip is only three-weeks away, her 22-year-old son Alex, who recently graduated and is working as a graduate trainee in London voices concerns that he does not want to go. She also receives word from her 19-year-old daughter, Natalie, who is finishing her first year at university in Edinburgh, that she does not want to go in favor of staying in Spain as a teacher for the summer. While Alex’s story is further explored with his own perspective being told to explain his reasoning and the emotions that he is going through, Natalie’s, who does not get her perspective included, just comes across as a selfish and ungrateful child. Even with travel insurance, my parents would have made me pay back the money for the trip just for not communicating earlier and causing stress for having to rearrange or cancel travel plans.
On the other side of the world, River Romero is a struggling screenwriter living from project to project. She envies those that have it easier and is in a constant state of stress trying to obtain more projects. When she gets a new project featuring a screenplay that takes Shakespeare for teenagers, she decides to head straight to the source in Stratford-Upon-Avon in the UK. She thinks that Ambleside and Tess’s home is the first fit for a homestay and decides to rent it for six weeks. Since the owners were going to be gone on holiday, she thought it was the perfect place. Unfortunately, she has an unexpected guest with Dave in the summerhouse to contend with and everything in the UK is not smooth sailing.
As Dave is putting their dog’s Bella possessions in the attic, he falls and fractures three ribs and has broken his ankle. I honestly had to skim the parts with Bella as it was very emotional, but it does well to set up the more serious subjects to come in the story. Since the deal with River has already been settled for her to stay, this is how he ends up in the summerhouse. The situation with River is a subject that brings Tess and Dave’s marriage to the forefront. They have been married for 23 years, but with teenagers and the death of both of Dave’s parents, the two of them have been on edge for the past five/six years.
At the start of the novel, I was unsure about Tess as it did come across as a mid-life crisis and you begin to wonder how some of the issues did not come up before. Once the story continued, I sympathized with her and I just wanted her to relax and enjoy life. Dave has a lot of issues, but each of them needed to work together to potentially fix the marriage. Natalie, unfortunately, did not grow on me and just came across as selfish in many ways. On the other hand, I completely felt for Alex. When he first is presented with the story of his job, I felt he was entitled. He holds a degree, but is given basic copying jobs, so he decides to walk out at lunch without looking back. On this surface interaction, it did seem that he thought he was too good to start at the bottom just because he held a degree. Once his point of view continues, there is a lot going through his head and I just wanted things to get better for him. I wanted him to gain the tools to get by with the day to day. Again, this part of the story brought a lot more emotion than I expected at the start. The final main character, River, unfortunately, is one that never grew on me. I did not care for her character at all throughout the entire story. Since I did not connect with her, I more or less thought of her as a catalyst that affected the other characters and their stories.
Overall, this was a surprising read as there are many relatable moments for readers of any age. The importance of a support system is definitely present, as each of the character needed another to help them. As the story goes through the English countryside and the bustling city of Los Angeles, there was a nice contrast of the characters’ lifestyles. Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need to put your life into perspective as you can be stuck in a rut being in the same routine every day. The two characters are at different points in their lives, but both River and Tess learn something by living the life of the other. This very interesting escape read was full of both serious emotions and humor. [3.5 rounded to 4]
**I give a special thank you to Rachel @rararesources,, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to participate with this enjoyable novel via Netgalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Tess Simpson has been a senior accountant at her firm where she has worked for the past 17 years. When she is passed over for a promotion, she decides that it is time for a change. Rather than quitting, she takes a three-month sabbatical and she is excited to use this as an opportunity for her family to holiday together. She plans a three-week trip to her dream destinations of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. The difficult part is that her husband, Dave, is already reluctant since he hates to fly and loves holidays at home or close destinations, such as France. Months later and the trip is only three-weeks away, her 22-year-old son Alex, who recently graduated and is working as a graduate trainee in London voices concerns that he does not want to go. She also receives word from her 19-year-old daughter, Natalie, who is finishing her first year at university in Edinburgh, that she does not want to go in favor of staying in Spain as a teacher for the summer. While Alex’s story is further explored with his own perspective being told to explain his reasoning and the emotions that he is going through, Natalie’s, who does not get her perspective included, just comes across as a selfish and ungrateful child. Even with travel insurance, my parents would have made me pay back the money for the trip just for not communicating earlier and causing stress for having to rearrange or cancel travel plans.
On the other side of the world, River Romero is a struggling screenwriter living from project to project. She envies those that have it easier and is in a constant state of stress trying to obtain more projects. When she gets a new project featuring a screenplay that takes Shakespeare for teenagers, she decides to head straight to the source in Stratford-Upon-Avon in the UK. She thinks that Ambleside and Tess’s home is the first fit for a homestay and decides to rent it for six weeks. Since the owners were going to be gone on holiday, she thought it was the perfect place. Unfortunately, she has an unexpected guest with Dave in the summerhouse to contend with and everything in the UK is not smooth sailing.
As Dave is putting their dog’s Bella possessions in the attic, he falls and fractures three ribs and has broken his ankle. I honestly had to skim the parts with Bella as it was very emotional, but it does well to set up the more serious subjects to come in the story. Since the deal with River has already been settled for her to stay, this is how he ends up in the summerhouse. The situation with River is a subject that brings Tess and Dave’s marriage to the forefront. They have been married for 23 years, but with teenagers and the death of both of Dave’s parents, the two of them have been on edge for the past five/six years.
At the start of the novel, I was unsure about Tess as it did come across as a mid-life crisis and you begin to wonder how some of the issues did not come up before. Once the story continued, I sympathized with her and I just wanted her to relax and enjoy life. Dave has a lot of issues, but each of them needed to work together to potentially fix the marriage. Natalie, unfortunately, did not grow on me and just came across as selfish in many ways. On the other hand, I completely felt for Alex. When he first is presented with the story of his job, I felt he was entitled. He holds a degree, but is given basic copying jobs, so he decides to walk out at lunch without looking back. On this surface interaction, it did seem that he thought he was too good to start at the bottom just because he held a degree. Once his point of view continues, there is a lot going through his head and I just wanted things to get better for him. I wanted him to gain the tools to get by with the day to day. Again, this part of the story brought a lot more emotion than I expected at the start. The final main character, River, unfortunately, is one that never grew on me. I did not care for her character at all throughout the entire story. Since I did not connect with her, I more or less thought of her as a catalyst that affected the other characters and their stories.
Overall, this was a surprising read as there are many relatable moments for readers of any age. The importance of a support system is definitely present, as each of the character needed another to help them. As the story goes through the English countryside and the bustling city of Los Angeles, there was a nice contrast of the characters’ lifestyles. Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need to put your life into perspective as you can be stuck in a rut being in the same routine every day. The two characters are at different points in their lives, but both River and Tess learn something by living the life of the other. This very interesting escape read was full of both serious emotions and humor. [3.5 rounded to 4]
**I give a special thank you to Rachel @rararesources,, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to participate with this enjoyable novel via Netgalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
November 17, 2021
*Life’s Discoveries*
This book seemed like it was going to be quite boring, but so well worth the wait. I grew to love it. A Senior Accountant Mother gets to the stage in life when the children are off hand and all that is left is her husband. All her energy has been into sorting out the house and the children. She takes a sabbatical and plans a holiday for them all to spend time with her family. It does not go to plan and all seems lost.
There is one hitch a larger than life American Author is due to stay at their home while they go on their travels. With a lot of persuasion she swaps with the author. I will leave it there.
This book is about Tess discovering who she is as a person and what she can achieve on her own and realise her worth and she has to face if there is anything left in her marriage.
This book seemed like it was going to be quite boring, but so well worth the wait. I grew to love it. A Senior Accountant Mother gets to the stage in life when the children are off hand and all that is left is her husband. All her energy has been into sorting out the house and the children. She takes a sabbatical and plans a holiday for them all to spend time with her family. It does not go to plan and all seems lost.
There is one hitch a larger than life American Author is due to stay at their home while they go on their travels. With a lot of persuasion she swaps with the author. I will leave it there.
This book is about Tess discovering who she is as a person and what she can achieve on her own and realise her worth and she has to face if there is anything left in her marriage.
June 24, 2021
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook.
I was very excited to read this book. I like the authors style of writing. But I have a lot of issues with this story. First off the language is really really bad! I just don't think it is necessary for this type of book. Tess and River get on my nerves. To me they are both selfish especially River.. I don't connect with any of the characters in the book. I will try other books from this author in the future, just was not my cup of tea.
I was very excited to read this book. I like the authors style of writing. But I have a lot of issues with this story. First off the language is really really bad! I just don't think it is necessary for this type of book. Tess and River get on my nerves. To me they are both selfish especially River.. I don't connect with any of the characters in the book. I will try other books from this author in the future, just was not my cup of tea.
February 5, 2022
This book just didn't work for me. The title, the blurb and the cover are very different to the content of the book and don't match to me. It isn't your typical life swap story and as there was more focus on Tess and her family, I don't think that the storyline with River was necessary to the book. It wasn't bad but heavier going than I thought it was going to be, not fully enjoyable and it left me a bit unsatisfied with it all. I wouldn't rush to read it again.
July 30, 2021
Tess Simpson has it all – two grown children, a lovely husband, beloved dog, gorgeous home with a huge garden and a brilliant job in accounting. But has she really? After being passed over for a partnership in her firm and her dog dying, Tess is fed up. She needs a holiday, and with the whole family, and now. Asia might just be the thing. But then again – the children drop out, having their own plans, her husband Dave has an accident and Tess has two options now: stay at home and let life run just like it did all the time, or bite the bullet and travel alone.
River Romero is a screenwriter from Los Angeles, but her career seems to be stuck in a rut right now, so when the brilliant project comes her way, she’s desperate to do it right. And to do it right, she feels she has to travel to England, the land of Shakespeare. Will staying in Startford – Upon – Avon bring her the much needed inspiration?
The characters were very well drawn and felt normal and human, which is always a good thing. I enjoyed that Tess and River were so different and had other priorities in their lives and it was nice to get to know them and see what makes them tick. There was a lot of uncertainty and a bit of whingeing, but I think it’s only normal, right, they are both facing great challeges, especially Tess, and I think it needs a courage to travel alone, just like she did. And even though I was not sure about some of their decisions and motivation (especially River), it was lovely to see them thrive, to see what can happen when there is temptation, when you feel free again. I think it was more Tess stepping out of her comfort zones than River, River felt as if she felt home in each and every place, but it was Tess who needed courage and, to be honest, I was not sure if she’ll find it. Will she shake her own life a little bit?
The story is not as light – hearted as you might have been expecting, especially having the Annie Valentine’s series in your memory and seeing the colourful cover and absolutely brilliant title. It deals with some heavier issues and be prepared for depression and also a suicide trigger. I’m not sure if it made me happy, the way the story developed and the subplots – sure, the author has tried something new and something different, but I’m not absolutely sure that it turned out well. There were some lighter moments that maybe will make you smile a bit, but altogether it was rather serious and emotional journey of the main characters.
All in all, it was not a bad book but not this what I’ve been expecting. It didn’t make me laugh and I had a feeling that some of the things are there just for the sake of the story. The subplot of Tess’s son was – yes, I know, important – but underdeveloped. There were moments that it felt repetitive and a bit too flat for my liking, and you’ll probably need time to warm to Tess and River. There is also the dog, so importantly mentioned in the blurb but not in the story, until it is mentioned, in a one whole chapter that should probably feel emotional (here I am. The one who’s crying when watching Disney’s films and not being able to go to the cinema with her daughter when the film is about animals), but for me was forced and out of the blue and just like with Tess’s son subplot, I could live without.
Altogether, I was expecting something funnier and light – hearted. It was not a bad book, far from that, but sadly not my favourite from this author.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
River Romero is a screenwriter from Los Angeles, but her career seems to be stuck in a rut right now, so when the brilliant project comes her way, she’s desperate to do it right. And to do it right, she feels she has to travel to England, the land of Shakespeare. Will staying in Startford – Upon – Avon bring her the much needed inspiration?
The characters were very well drawn and felt normal and human, which is always a good thing. I enjoyed that Tess and River were so different and had other priorities in their lives and it was nice to get to know them and see what makes them tick. There was a lot of uncertainty and a bit of whingeing, but I think it’s only normal, right, they are both facing great challeges, especially Tess, and I think it needs a courage to travel alone, just like she did. And even though I was not sure about some of their decisions and motivation (especially River), it was lovely to see them thrive, to see what can happen when there is temptation, when you feel free again. I think it was more Tess stepping out of her comfort zones than River, River felt as if she felt home in each and every place, but it was Tess who needed courage and, to be honest, I was not sure if she’ll find it. Will she shake her own life a little bit?
The story is not as light – hearted as you might have been expecting, especially having the Annie Valentine’s series in your memory and seeing the colourful cover and absolutely brilliant title. It deals with some heavier issues and be prepared for depression and also a suicide trigger. I’m not sure if it made me happy, the way the story developed and the subplots – sure, the author has tried something new and something different, but I’m not absolutely sure that it turned out well. There were some lighter moments that maybe will make you smile a bit, but altogether it was rather serious and emotional journey of the main characters.
All in all, it was not a bad book but not this what I’ve been expecting. It didn’t make me laugh and I had a feeling that some of the things are there just for the sake of the story. The subplot of Tess’s son was – yes, I know, important – but underdeveloped. There were moments that it felt repetitive and a bit too flat for my liking, and you’ll probably need time to warm to Tess and River. There is also the dog, so importantly mentioned in the blurb but not in the story, until it is mentioned, in a one whole chapter that should probably feel emotional (here I am. The one who’s crying when watching Disney’s films and not being able to go to the cinema with her daughter when the film is about animals), but for me was forced and out of the blue and just like with Tess’s son subplot, I could live without.
Altogether, I was expecting something funnier and light – hearted. It was not a bad book, far from that, but sadly not my favourite from this author.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
January 21, 2024
Needing a break from superheroes who individually save the world but blow up half a state in doing so, I was looking for a total Segway away from that genre of book. I settled on a seeking out a Rocom Drama genre and found this in my shared library and thought why not.
“Worn out wife seeks new life” not sure that was the correct title for this book as each character in it had a leading thread in what I saw as a very profound book on the worn life of marriage. But let’s run with it as it kicks the book off well with two leading characters seeking different things.
Often what you want in life you don’t get. Sometimes it can be a treacherously hard journey which can lead to all sorts of outcomes and some beyond your wildest dreams. The story beginning shaped around Tess and River wonderfully illustrates this.
I thought the content picture painted in my mind of the Argentinean Tango dance gave hope to Tess and Dave for their marriage. With that idea firmly planted in my mind at the beginning of the book when Tess arrived in LA, it really set the plot for me and the book dragged me in.
It took awhile to get up to speed for me, so the first few chapters were a bit slow. It did however clearly lead well into the storylines of all the key characters(Tess, Dave, River, Natalie, the Dog and Alex) and the supporting actors( Larry, The Professor and the A-list Celebs) that played well into setting them up.
The story telling was fun, entertaining and emotional but not challenging in a delightful way which makes it an enjoyable read.
For me how the structure of the Tango dance was portrayed in Tess’s part of the story was very profound and was in my view a stroke of brilliance and made the story.
Soooo many tired but committed marriages could benefit from understanding and applying this concept metaphor.
“In her marriage and in her family, Tess had been the one who gave, who led, who let everyone lean on her and she had become all rigid and tense and unable to enjoy being anything else.” How many wives and Mums carry that load.
From Larry, “to dance the tango you will begin to understand what it’s all about. It’s unstructured, with no set steps, it’s like life, it goes where you take it and where it takes you.
It’s touch, but don’t touch, move, but don’t move… hold, but let go. It’s seduction, but also repression.”
Give and take… lean in and lean out… lead and be led. The dance was a metaphor, not just for seduction but also for a relationship.
Larry described this dance beautifully. ‘It’s touch, but don’t touch; move, but don’t move… hold me, but also let me go.’
Tess came to understand, sometimes she would lead, sometimes she would follow; there was now give and take… trust, support and understanding… in the dance, and in their lives.
The story woven around all this is well narrated and I rated it as a top read.
“Worn out wife seeks new life” not sure that was the correct title for this book as each character in it had a leading thread in what I saw as a very profound book on the worn life of marriage. But let’s run with it as it kicks the book off well with two leading characters seeking different things.
Often what you want in life you don’t get. Sometimes it can be a treacherously hard journey which can lead to all sorts of outcomes and some beyond your wildest dreams. The story beginning shaped around Tess and River wonderfully illustrates this.
I thought the content picture painted in my mind of the Argentinean Tango dance gave hope to Tess and Dave for their marriage. With that idea firmly planted in my mind at the beginning of the book when Tess arrived in LA, it really set the plot for me and the book dragged me in.
It took awhile to get up to speed for me, so the first few chapters were a bit slow. It did however clearly lead well into the storylines of all the key characters(Tess, Dave, River, Natalie, the Dog and Alex) and the supporting actors( Larry, The Professor and the A-list Celebs) that played well into setting them up.
The story telling was fun, entertaining and emotional but not challenging in a delightful way which makes it an enjoyable read.
For me how the structure of the Tango dance was portrayed in Tess’s part of the story was very profound and was in my view a stroke of brilliance and made the story.
Soooo many tired but committed marriages could benefit from understanding and applying this concept metaphor.
“In her marriage and in her family, Tess had been the one who gave, who led, who let everyone lean on her and she had become all rigid and tense and unable to enjoy being anything else.” How many wives and Mums carry that load.
From Larry, “to dance the tango you will begin to understand what it’s all about. It’s unstructured, with no set steps, it’s like life, it goes where you take it and where it takes you.
It’s touch, but don’t touch, move, but don’t move… hold, but let go. It’s seduction, but also repression.”
Give and take… lean in and lean out… lead and be led. The dance was a metaphor, not just for seduction but also for a relationship.
Larry described this dance beautifully. ‘It’s touch, but don’t touch; move, but don’t move… hold me, but also let me go.’
Tess came to understand, sometimes she would lead, sometimes she would follow; there was now give and take… trust, support and understanding… in the dance, and in their lives.
The story woven around all this is well narrated and I rated it as a top read.
July 29, 2021
I was so excited to be reading a book by one of my favourite authors, Carmen Reid, it was real anticipation for her latest and I wasn’t disappointed, I was thrilled to bits with this new novel. Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life is fun, entertaining, very readable but oh my gosh the intensity of the drama and vulnerability in some scenes nearly broke me.
This is a story of a woman who’s worked so hard juggling her career and her home life and is hoping all this will be rewarded with a partnership with the accountancy firm she works at. Tess is in her late 40’s, has been happily married to Dave for over 20 years and has two grown up children. Tess is feeling a little worn out, a little empty and a little under appreciated. The children have left home and her and Dave are struggling to find a new rhythm in their lives.
When life thwarts her plans and dreams a new opportunity comes her way and she finds herself jetting off to LA for a life-affirming adventure, she just first has to get to know her new and unexpected house mates!
Carmen Reid has written a story about a woman going off on an adventure but this story is not just about one person’s crusade. It’s also about how each individual family member is coming to terms with new events and crossroads in their lives. We get to hear about other people they meet along the journey of discovery that have a profound effect on their lives giving them insights into a world they thought they didn’t belong.
In amongst the partying and adventures Carmen Reid tackles quite a topical, serious issue that evoked many emotions in me. This issue was dealt with sensitivity and grace but theirs also a moment of intensity that will stay with me for a long time.
I loved Tess, Dave, Alex and Natalie, their passions, their quirks, their relationship with the rest of the family, their loves and their vulnerabilities. The joy of River bringing forth her exuberance but also her own vulnerability. Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life is rich in characters, full of the high and lows of life, uplifting, fun, poignant and emotive. I’m now feeling slightly bereft as I’ve come to the end of the novel. I can’t wait to see where Carmen Reid takes us next.
This is a story of a woman who’s worked so hard juggling her career and her home life and is hoping all this will be rewarded with a partnership with the accountancy firm she works at. Tess is in her late 40’s, has been happily married to Dave for over 20 years and has two grown up children. Tess is feeling a little worn out, a little empty and a little under appreciated. The children have left home and her and Dave are struggling to find a new rhythm in their lives.
When life thwarts her plans and dreams a new opportunity comes her way and she finds herself jetting off to LA for a life-affirming adventure, she just first has to get to know her new and unexpected house mates!
Carmen Reid has written a story about a woman going off on an adventure but this story is not just about one person’s crusade. It’s also about how each individual family member is coming to terms with new events and crossroads in their lives. We get to hear about other people they meet along the journey of discovery that have a profound effect on their lives giving them insights into a world they thought they didn’t belong.
In amongst the partying and adventures Carmen Reid tackles quite a topical, serious issue that evoked many emotions in me. This issue was dealt with sensitivity and grace but theirs also a moment of intensity that will stay with me for a long time.
I loved Tess, Dave, Alex and Natalie, their passions, their quirks, their relationship with the rest of the family, their loves and their vulnerabilities. The joy of River bringing forth her exuberance but also her own vulnerability. Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life is rich in characters, full of the high and lows of life, uplifting, fun, poignant and emotive. I’m now feeling slightly bereft as I’ve come to the end of the novel. I can’t wait to see where Carmen Reid takes us next.
July 10, 2021
Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life is the story of two women who want more from life.
Tess Simpson is a wife and mother who feels like no-one appreciates her at home or work.
River Romero is a scriptwriter from LA who wants an escape.
From the synopsis, I was reminded of the film The Holiday which I loved, for this book has the same escapist vibe. I did find it was easy to get into for the first few scenes and then felt let down when I realised this was a daydream. It was so atmospheric.
Then much of the first chapters was work-centered which I didn't find that enthralling as it took away from the fun opening but which did provide some of Tess's workplace backstory and a sense of "this is my dream life versus this is the reality. " It did feel very drawn out.
I was much more interested when Tess and River ended up in their respective hose swap properties. For River, it was Tess's rural home and Tess ended up in LA. Once the swap begins, it's fun, and there are some funny parts but we also experience each character's reality in life before, during and after the house swap. Will they appreciate what they really have? Will they want to come home? Will others in their life appreciate them more?
I did find it hard to relate to Tess and River at times.
Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life is an escapist book and it's well-written but I would have liked less chapters filled with exclusively work-related situations for Tess and I expected the swap to take place sooner.
Thanks to Carmen Reid, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3.5 stars
Tess Simpson is a wife and mother who feels like no-one appreciates her at home or work.
River Romero is a scriptwriter from LA who wants an escape.
From the synopsis, I was reminded of the film The Holiday which I loved, for this book has the same escapist vibe. I did find it was easy to get into for the first few scenes and then felt let down when I realised this was a daydream. It was so atmospheric.
Then much of the first chapters was work-centered which I didn't find that enthralling as it took away from the fun opening but which did provide some of Tess's workplace backstory and a sense of "this is my dream life versus this is the reality. " It did feel very drawn out.
I was much more interested when Tess and River ended up in their respective hose swap properties. For River, it was Tess's rural home and Tess ended up in LA. Once the swap begins, it's fun, and there are some funny parts but we also experience each character's reality in life before, during and after the house swap. Will they appreciate what they really have? Will they want to come home? Will others in their life appreciate them more?
I did find it hard to relate to Tess and River at times.
Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life is an escapist book and it's well-written but I would have liked less chapters filled with exclusively work-related situations for Tess and I expected the swap to take place sooner.
Thanks to Carmen Reid, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3.5 stars
July 27, 2021
Quite a few years since I read one of this author’s books, but when I saw she had a new one being published, I was curious.
You might know the feeling: You have a busy life and everybody at home or at work counts on you. When it’s finally time you are sure you will be rewarded for everything you have done during your working hours, well things don’t seem to go down that road.
But of course there is still your family or are they going to disappoint you as well?
The two main characters are Tess and River. Tess totally understands how you feel, because she is in the same boat. When everything comes crashing down, River comes to the rescue. She convinces Tess it’s time to take care of number one for a change. Is River her guardian angel or is she in fact looking out for number one too by pushing Tess in this direction?
Will Tess find the new life she wants? For this to happen she will have to come out of her comfort zone, but is she ready to do that?
If you want to find answers to those questions, you will have to sit down with this book and find out for yourself. 😉
At times it’s laughing out loud funny, at times it’s crying out loud sad. This is a story that puts the spotlight on finding the right balance in your life in order to remain happy. Sometimes you fall into a pattern, which is not bad of course, but you still need to find things to do to spice up your life. 4 stars
Thank you, Carmen Reid and Rachel’s Random Resources
You might know the feeling: You have a busy life and everybody at home or at work counts on you. When it’s finally time you are sure you will be rewarded for everything you have done during your working hours, well things don’t seem to go down that road.
But of course there is still your family or are they going to disappoint you as well?
The two main characters are Tess and River. Tess totally understands how you feel, because she is in the same boat. When everything comes crashing down, River comes to the rescue. She convinces Tess it’s time to take care of number one for a change. Is River her guardian angel or is she in fact looking out for number one too by pushing Tess in this direction?
Will Tess find the new life she wants? For this to happen she will have to come out of her comfort zone, but is she ready to do that?
If you want to find answers to those questions, you will have to sit down with this book and find out for yourself. 😉
At times it’s laughing out loud funny, at times it’s crying out loud sad. This is a story that puts the spotlight on finding the right balance in your life in order to remain happy. Sometimes you fall into a pattern, which is not bad of course, but you still need to find things to do to spice up your life. 4 stars
Thank you, Carmen Reid and Rachel’s Random Resources
August 2, 2021
I received a digital ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
When I decided to read this book, I expected a run of the mill comedy with some giggles along the way. I will try to never make that assumption again. This book certainly has some great comedy moments – flying dog poo, for example – but it is more than that, it’s a book that gets right to the heart of how easy it is to get stuck in a rut and how fragile mental health can be.
I felt that I immediately empathised with Tess, overlooked at work despite working hard and generating great results. Taken for granted by her family and completely jaded. It’s not a unique set of circumstances, especially after recent events. I even cried when her dog died!
River is the polar opposite, younger and determined to find her next big break, she is tenacious to the point of over committing and letting her personal life fall into disarray. I liked River but didn’t feel as connected to her.
The story is told in dual perspectives as Tess adapts to life in LA and River searches for inspiration in Shakespeare country. Each has to navigate their way to finding the peace and contentment that they both need and crave.
Their journeys have an effect on the people that they meet along their paths. From learning the Argentinian Tango to creating an epiphany for Dave. A lot happens in this delightful, life affirming book, and it is way more than the light-hearted story that I shamefully expected it to be.
When I decided to read this book, I expected a run of the mill comedy with some giggles along the way. I will try to never make that assumption again. This book certainly has some great comedy moments – flying dog poo, for example – but it is more than that, it’s a book that gets right to the heart of how easy it is to get stuck in a rut and how fragile mental health can be.
I felt that I immediately empathised with Tess, overlooked at work despite working hard and generating great results. Taken for granted by her family and completely jaded. It’s not a unique set of circumstances, especially after recent events. I even cried when her dog died!
River is the polar opposite, younger and determined to find her next big break, she is tenacious to the point of over committing and letting her personal life fall into disarray. I liked River but didn’t feel as connected to her.
The story is told in dual perspectives as Tess adapts to life in LA and River searches for inspiration in Shakespeare country. Each has to navigate their way to finding the peace and contentment that they both need and crave.
Their journeys have an effect on the people that they meet along their paths. From learning the Argentinian Tango to creating an epiphany for Dave. A lot happens in this delightful, life affirming book, and it is way more than the light-hearted story that I shamefully expected it to be.
July 27, 2021
I was delighted to see that Carmen Reid had a new book out. I read her previous books over a decade ago and really enjoyed them. I couldn't wait to get stuck into reading this book. The title of this book basically sums up what the book is about. Tess is fed up and feeling unappreciated by her family. She wants to do something different and more exciting. River is feeling the pressure in L.A. she seemingly has the perfect life but is struggling to write her new screenplay. She decides a trip to England will help her to write. I could immediately relate to Tess, feeling overwhelmed with having so many things that need doing. It took me longer to warm to River, but she did grow on me. This is a familiar theme of a house swap, but I really enjoyed the contrast of the to womens lives, as well as the insight into their personal lives, especially Tess. This wasn't az lighthearted as I expected it to be, like some of Carmen Reid's earlier books. It had more depth, and stronger themes, especially Mental Health. It was enjoyable and heartwarming though, and there were some funny moments too. There were plenty of unexpected events and it kept me guessing about how the book would end. I really hope that Carmen Reid writes another book soon. Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for my ARC.
August 8, 2021
When Tess is passed over for promotion she decides to take matters in her own hands and go off on a holiday with her family. Life though seems to be giving her one heart break after another and instead of flying off to exotic Thailand with her husband, daughter and son she seems destined to spend it her holidays at home tending to her husband. But luckily life has other plans for her and River a screenwriter who has an AirBnb arrangement with Tess convinces her to let her stay at Tess's home while Tess can come over to her place in LA.
The story is not just about Tess and River who are looking to revitalize their career but also about Tess's relationship with her husband and her son. My favourite part fo the book frankly was the bonding between father and son and there was, I belive, a strong social message for all to learn and understand from it.
Overall the book would be a 3.5 star rating from my end, it definitely has its humor front but the serious part of it was what caught my attention and made this book an enjoyable one.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book for my unbiased feedback. This book is one for those times when you feel you are stuck at your job, relationship and in general with life, looking at this through Tess's and her husband's eyes will maybe help you finding and revitalizing your own perspective,
The story is not just about Tess and River who are looking to revitalize their career but also about Tess's relationship with her husband and her son. My favourite part fo the book frankly was the bonding between father and son and there was, I belive, a strong social message for all to learn and understand from it.
Overall the book would be a 3.5 star rating from my end, it definitely has its humor front but the serious part of it was what caught my attention and made this book an enjoyable one.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book for my unbiased feedback. This book is one for those times when you feel you are stuck at your job, relationship and in general with life, looking at this through Tess's and her husband's eyes will maybe help you finding and revitalizing your own perspective,
July 17, 2021
With thanks to #Netgalley and #Boldwood for an ARC of #WornOutWifeSeeksNewLife by #CarmenReid.
Carmen Reid is a new author to me, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book.
Tess is unappreciated at work and at home. The death of her dog really is the final straw.
River, desperately wants to further her career as a screen writer. Her next project is crucial.
Both women need a change… so they swap lives!
Is the grass really greener on the other side? And can these two women find what they need in their new environments.
Immediately the title of this book appealed to me, and I could absolutely relate to Tess and her situation.
River took a bit longer to get to grips with, but by the end I really cared about, and was rooting for these two fabulous women.
I was particularly impressed with the nod to mens mental health, as part of Tess’s son, Alex’s story. Such an important issue to raise awareness of.
This book is well written, funny, poignant and uplifting.
Maybe a bit sweary in places, but I felt it was written in context. However, I Know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.
Definitely a ‘just another chapter’ sort of book.
Thoroughly enjoyed and recommended.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 21, 2021
I loved this book. I read it in one sitting and couldn't put it down. Classic life swap storyline but the writing was just wow. It captures your attention and plays with your emotions from start to finish. I was crying at the start, laughing in the middle and crying at the end.
The main character, Tess, was amazing. After what happens to her at the start of the book you could forgive her for just curling up into a ball and not facing life for a while but she says sod it to everyone and embarks on a solo adventure to LA, swapping houses with River, an American writer who needs to come to the UK for work.
Life in LA isn't quite what she imagines but Tess makes the most of it and learns how to shake her own life up a bit. Meanwhile River is causing a bit of carnage over in the UK and having her own little adventure! River's character did grow on me throughout the book but I wasn't a big fan of hers to start with.
A more sobering part of the book is the storyline involving Tess's son, Alex. The author touches on a very important subject and does a fantastic job in highlighting that particular issue in a heartfelt and emotive way.
Overall a fantastic read, perfect for the summer. I would highly recommend.
The main character, Tess, was amazing. After what happens to her at the start of the book you could forgive her for just curling up into a ball and not facing life for a while but she says sod it to everyone and embarks on a solo adventure to LA, swapping houses with River, an American writer who needs to come to the UK for work.
Life in LA isn't quite what she imagines but Tess makes the most of it and learns how to shake her own life up a bit. Meanwhile River is causing a bit of carnage over in the UK and having her own little adventure! River's character did grow on me throughout the book but I wasn't a big fan of hers to start with.
A more sobering part of the book is the storyline involving Tess's son, Alex. The author touches on a very important subject and does a fantastic job in highlighting that particular issue in a heartfelt and emotive way.
Overall a fantastic read, perfect for the summer. I would highly recommend.
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